The Myths & Movement....

by Awilda Rivera

Originally Published July 2016 for Aquarius Magazine in "Under The Bodhi Tree"

Categories

All Infographic Personal Management Podcast Interviews Professional Development Success Coaching Time Ninja Series Under The Bodhi Tree Yoga

There are many layers to the rich tapestry of Yoga. We have discussed the ancient philosophy, physiology and modern interpretations of Yoga.  However we have neglected to explore the Mythology of Yoga. It is not shocking that the Yogic tradition has elaborate Myths attached to the creation and naming of  many of its most notable poses.
 
Surprisingly, not all of the Myths associated with Yoga are connected to Hindu Mythology.  Some of the stories are connected to ancient ways of living, others to an understanding about nature, and some are even tied to stories of the Buddha.
 
There is a lot to learn about Yoga through these many myths. For example, it is said that Tree pose was developed to help us embody the tolerance, altruistic giving, strength and balance that  trees have symbolized to humanity since the beginning of time. [1]   Another notable myth tells of a Man who spent 3 lifetimes trying to master the Vedas[2], only to realize that he spent 3 lifetimes focused on the wrong thing.   This dedicated man had thought the best way to get close to divinity was to memorize these sacred texts; however he had failed to realize the ultimate lesson: knowledge gained and not shared helps no one. After being given the opportunity to experience a 4 lifetime, the man spent all his living years sharing the knowledge and joy of Vedas with others. Ironically at the conclusion of the 4th lifetime he was given the opportunity to avoid further reincarnation[3], yet the happiness he had experienced while sharing the knowledge was so great that he chose to continue being reborn so that he could share the knowledge with others. [4]
 
Many of the Myths are allegorical and serve to illustrate important points about life’s greater noble truths. These myths illuminate nuances about how to live  in harmony with yourself and your environment. The stories shine a light on the importance of being able to occupy a space of harmony with humility and grace, such that your peaceful presence can be an example to help others achieve the same state of existence.
 
If you are interested in reading more of the Yoga Myths, there are several excellent books in print that will provide a closer look at these incredible stories.  Here are a few books that contain many of the Yoga Myths and can help you experience yoga through this new lens:
 

1. Myths of the Asanas, by Alana Kaivalya (mandala publishing 2010)
   
   
2. Downward Dogs and Warriors: Wisdom Tales for Modern Yogis, By Zo Newell (Himalayan Insitute, 2007)
   
   
3. Yoga: Immortality and Freedom (Mythos: Princeton /Bollingen Series on World Mythology) by Mircea Eliade & William R. Trask - 2009

 
The myths of Yoga offer a refreshing perspective on an ancient practice through its own narrative. Don’t take my word for it, check it out for yourself. Check out one of these awesome resources. Dive into the world of lessons learned and miraculous triumph!
 
Until Next time, Namaste y’all!

Footnotes:
[1] Myths of the Asanas, Alana Kaivalya (Mandala Publishing 2010), p. 167
[2] Vedas are sacred Hindu Texts
[3] The liberation from the cycle of reincarnation is a very significant concept in Hinduism – this liberation from the death and rebirth cycle could be compared to experience of reaching enlightenment.
[4] Kaivalya, p. 111-116

---